Earn the playing time you deserve!

In the game of basketball, there are key players, role players, utility players, STAR players, and practice players. Although each and every player must serve a different role on their respective team, these roles do not have to be permanent. Early on in your career, you may find yourself in any one of these categories (obviously you would be happier being a STAR/key player rather than a role/practice player). The beautiful thing about this game is that year after year, situations can change and you can find yourself either in a better role or quite possibly in a weaker role. Even if you are waiting for your chance next season, there are things you can do at the end of your current season to put yourself in a better position for next year. There are many different factors that can influence your role on your team. One of the main things that help you transition UP the ladder is realizing that there are some things you may not be able to control in your situation with your team (don’t worry about these), but there are MANY things you CAN controlthat can affect your value as a player. My personal advice to all players (especially the younger players) is to not worry about your current situation, and continue working and practicing for the role you want NEXT season. ALOT CAN HAPPEN IN ONE YEAR/SEASON. TRUST ME.

I have known players that have gone unnoticed for years finally reach their potential and get that college scholarship everyone desires so much, some even making it to a professional level. On the other hand, I also personally know some players that were dubbed “the next best thing” that never panned out throughout high school or college, and were a huge disappointment based on the hype they received as a youth, and now are only legends at the park during the summer.

Below are several tips I have learned throughout the years that can IMMEDIATELY get you more attention as a player and eventually gain the respect of both your coach and teammates on your way to earning significant amounts of playing time.